Uh oh, looks like you lost a client! Don’t worry though, let’s examine why that might have happened. First thing is first, take a step back and take a look at the situation from a standpoint Nicknamed S.W.O.T (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) As stated by Kyle Peterdy of CFI, “ A SWOT analysis is a framework to help assess and understand the internal and external forces that may create opportunities or risks for an organization.” A possible reason why that customer left is because there is competition out there that is performing better than you. So, to attract more customers while doing a good job of serving them let’s discuss each aspect of S.W.O.T.
First, Strength. What are you good at doing? Do you have the best products, the best connections, the best platform to advertise from, whatever it is that you or whomever you work for are best at, focus on that at all costs. Doing what you do best is the best way to do things as it will be the most efficient in the long and short term.
Second, Weakness. We all of weaknesses or things we fall short in, but it’s a whole thing entirely to acknowledge and try to counter it. Understanding what you fall short of is key to being successful, it helps you become whole and a result, a better salesperson in the end.
Third, Opportunities. What is happening around you that you can take advantage of? What events or activities are happening that can help you out? Understanding and jumping on these opportunities can make or break a salesperson or company.
Lastly, Threats. What is threatening your sales? Other Sellers most likely and by losing a customer that already proves that there are threats to you. Understand and learn why they are such a threat to you. Understand how they operate and then compare yourself to see where you fall short.
While S.W.O.T is all fine and dandy, remember that at the end of the day, you are more than one customer and that sometimes that customer just won’t be the best for you and vice versa. As the saying goes “You may be the juiciest peach on the tree, but some people just don’t like peaches.”
A S.W.O.T analysis is a great place to start! I love how you explained it so that everyone can understand. I also appreciated how you summarized with the fact that you can’t be everything for everyone. This was a very well-balanced post!